If You're Listening

The podcast dives into the shifting dynamics of political elections and misinformation. It highlights the upcoming Australian federal election, where social media's role has changed drastically. Explore how billionaires now influence political narratives and decisions directly. The discussion also touches on global challenges in regulating tech giants and Australia's unique efforts to combat online misinformation. Listeners will gain insights into the implications for democracy and the safety of young voters navigating this new landscape.

Explore how Japan transformed from a housing market crisis to affordable home ownership. Discover the impactful policies from the era of Yasuhiro Nakasone and the unique town planning strategies that shaped their success. Uncover the tension between urban development and community heritage in Tokyo, as rising land prices challenge traditional neighborhoods. Finally, compare Japan's housing dynamics, cultural practices, and tax policies with Australia’s struggles, offering insights into potential solutions for global housing challenges.

Elon Musk's Tesla faces a storm as stock prices and sales decline, largely due to public backlash against his Trump ties. Historical boycotts of an American beer brand provide context, revealing how political relationships can impact a company. The show reflects on a brewing family's legacy during Prohibition, highlighting their innovative resilience. The chilling tale of the Coors family's history adds depth, exploring how fear and power influence business. Plus, there’s buzz about an upcoming live show and a new podcast on hidden histories!

Donald Trump's newfound fascination with rare earth elements could be a game-changer in global politics. The discussion highlights the importance of these materials for technology, especially in producing electric vehicles. The potential multibillion-dollar deal with Ukraine raises questions about resource access and military support. There's also skepticism about the actual rarity and value of these elements compared to precious metals. The podcast dives into environmental challenges and the geopolitical maneuvering surrounding this precious resource.

The podcast delves into France's long-standing skepticism towards U.S. reliability, particularly in light of Trump's shifting stance on Ukraine. It explores historical contexts, tracing back to Charles de Gaulle’s era and highlighting pivotal moments of American support during WWII. The discussion addresses Franco-American tensions, particularly during the Cold War, examining de Gaulle's doubts about U.S. commitments to European security. Furthermore, it considers France's military independence and the implications of evolving global alliances in today’s geopolitical landscape.

Since he took office, Donald Trump has made a lot of decisions that fly in the face of traditional US foreign policy. He’s left Ukraine high and dry, he’s abandoning Europe, he’s slapped tariffs on America’s allies, and he’s floated the idea of seizing new territory in Greenland, Canada and the Panama Canal. And the big one: President Trump seems to have a great deal of time and respect for Russian President Vladimir Putin. So what’s the deal with Putin and Trump - is what we’re witnessing now just the beginning of their grand plans for a new world order? And what hints can we get on how things might unfold from a conference that happened 80 years ago between US president Franklin Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin in a little town called Yalta?This week on If You’re Listening, will Putin’s dream of an emboldened Soviet sphere come true? And if you're a Newcastle fan come see If You're Listening live with Matt Bevan on Sunday 4th April at 4pm at the Conservatorium of music concert hall - Tickets are free! Find out more: https://www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/if-youre-listening-live/Follow If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.

In the United States, there are laws constraining the President’s power. The Attorney General and everyone who works at the Department of Justice aren’t meant to just do whatever the President tells them; they’re in charge of enforcing the law, whatever it is. So what will they do when enforcing the law doesn’t align with Donald Trump’s policies? In Trump’s first term, the Attorneys General and Justice Department staff prioritised the law over Trump’s desires, because that’s how democracies work. Is there any chance that will happen this time?Follow If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3iLKlAcMl4&list=PLDTPrMoGHssAfgMMS3L5LpLNFMNp1U_Nq&index=1&t=6s

Donald Trump's claims of a weaponized justice system set the stage for a major transformation in the FBI. The controversial appointment of Kash Patel raises concerns about a return to political manipulation reminiscent of J. Edgar Hoover's era. The podcast delves into the turbulent history of the FBI's treatment of civil rights leaders, particularly the scrutiny faced by Martin Luther King Jr. It further explores the tension and credibility crisis within the FBI under Trump's influence, igniting debates on governmental power and justice.

The podcast dives into Elon Musk's controversial budget cuts and his quest to tackle wasteful government spending. It humorously critiques outrageous claims about U.S. aid, like the condom funding narrative. The discussion uncovers the pitfalls of outdated retirement paperwork and the labyrinthine bureaucracy at Iron Mountain. With a satirical lens, it highlights the irony of cutting budgets while grappling with essential services. The episode also touches on the intense backlash Musk faces from the public and the complexities of fiscal reform.

When US President Donald Trump announced his plan for America to take over the Gaza Strip, everyone was stunned. That includes the man standing next to him, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. President Trump says everyone he’s spoken to loves the idea. But who has he spoken to? In his first term as president, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner led efforts to broker peace in the region, and his approach makes this latest announcement make a lot more sense. This week on If You’re Listening, how Kushner and Trump turned geopolitics into property development.Are you in Adelaide? On March 1 we're performing live, with all new stories at the Adelaide Festival Writers' Week. Tickets are selling fast: https://www.adelaidefestival.com.au/events/2025-writers-week/if-you-re-listening/Follow If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RhRPA57_iQE?si=UhVFsMF5RIHgbUoX